POUfamily
POUfamily refers to a group of transcription factors defined by the presence of the POU domain, a conserved bipartite DNA-binding motif found in metazoans. Members regulate gene expression in diverse tissues and developmental stages, contributing to cell fate decisions, differentiation, and maintenance of cellular identity.
The POU domain comprises two subdomains, a POU-specific domain and a homeodomain, connected by a linker. Together
Notable POU-family members include Pit-1 (POU1F1), Oct-1 and Oct-2 (POU2F1/POU2F2), Brn-1, Brn-2 and Brn-4 (POU3F1–POU3F3), Brn-3
Function and significance: In development, POU factors influence lineage specification, organ formation, and neuronal maturation. Oct-4
Clinical and research relevance: Altered POU factor expression is linked to cancers, developmental disorders, and infertility.
Evolution and organization: The POU family is conserved across animals, with genes often organized in clusters